The Borders College Greens Skills electric car was spotted in Stornoway as part of a sustainability initiative when Borders College Motor Vehicle Lecturer Les Armstrong attended a Professional Development Award course in hydrogen at UHI North, West, and Hebrides.
The course, certified by the SQA, focuses on using hydrogen as an energy source and storage medium, providing practical training for safe work in hydrogen environments. It aims to equip learners with the skills needed to work in Scotland’s expanding hydrogen industry and offers recognized qualifications at progressive SCQF levels.
Hydrogen is a key component of Scotland’s future energy strategy due to its potential for renewable energy production and economic opportunities. Scotland's substantial renewable energy resources, supportive policies, and investments make it an ideal location for developing a hydrogen economy.
The Energy Saving Partnership fully funded the costs of the course "Hydrogen: An Introduction for Technicians" at SCQF level 7. Students must have a formal qualification in a related discipline to be eligible for the course.
Les Armstrong, who has been a lecturer in motor vehicles for 19 years, highlighted the importance of the course in preparing for the automotive sector's technological advancements and the shift towards green energy.
"While the course was not directly aimed at the automotive industry, it covered areas related to energy production, storage, and potential uses in various sectors, including transport, national grid, and off-grid living."
Borders College is approved by the Institute of Motor Industry (IMI) to teach the new Hydrogen Level 1 Awareness course.